Scotland names team to play Australia

Scott Johnson has named his team for Scotland’s game against Australia this Saturday.

Tommy Seymour passed a fitness test and starts on the wing, in a back-line that shows just one change – Duncan Weir is preferred at fly-half to clubmate Ruaridh Jackson, who drops to the bench.

Glasgow players Ryan Grant and Tim Swinson return to the front five for Alasdair Dickinson and Richie Gray respectively, while Johnnie Beattie and Kelly Brown are instated in the back-row. Brown captains the side as Alasdair Strokosch and John Barclay drop out of the squad entirely.

Uncapped London Irish player Kieran Low could make his debut from the bench, which also features Pat MacArthur, who is unlucky not to start after some strong cameos from the bench.

Jim Hamilton is set to win his fiftieth cap, while Sean Lamont overtakes Gregor Townsend as the third most-capped Scottish back.

“A six day turn-around from one Test match to another is always a challenge and it’s one we’ll face in our opening two games of the 2014 Six Nations Championship too,” said head coach Scott Johnson.

“We’re clear in what we’re trying to do at the moment which is look at different combinations with a view to intensifying the competition for places in the team. That mantra doesn’t change, so we adhere to the plan, while dealing with injuries and while always being true to the jersey. Australia played some quality rugby against Ireland last weekend and we’re very much looking forward to renewing our rivalry with them on Saturday.”

*UPDATE* Tim Swinson has aggravated a chest injury suffered against Japan and will be replaced by Grant Gilchrist. Jonny Gray takes his place on the bench.

An 8 playing 6, a 6 playing 7, a 6 playing 8 and a lock as back row cover on the bench. No genuine 7 in sight, for a game where you could justify starting 2 of them. All makes sense in Johnson’s cloud cuckoo land.